Paid Research Assistants in Panama

We are looking for upper-division undergraduate students or recent graduates for 5-6 month research assistantships in biomedical sciences during the summer and/or fall 2012 with possible extension to spring 2013 at the Institute of Scientific Investigations and High Technology Services (INDICASAT-AIP), the University of Panama (UP), or at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) in Panama City, Panama.

Funding for these assistantships comes from the Minority Health and Health Disparities International Research Training (MHIRT) program funded through the National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NCMHD). The MHIRT program is designed to increase the numbers of students belonging to health disparities populations or underrepresented minorities that pursue advanced degrees in basic sciences, biomedical or clinical research fields. Travel, food, lodging, and research expenses are completely covered and a small personal stipend is provided.

Program Eligibility:

* Students must belong to an ethnic minority including, but not limited to, African Americans, Asian Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, Alaskan Natives, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders, or be from medically underserved populations (i.e., socio-economically disadvantaged individuals in rural and urban areas). * Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. * Students should be juniors, seniors, or recent graduates with a minimum GPA of 3.0. * Students should have completed at least one year of biology and/or chemistry with laboratory, with extracurricular laboratory experience preferred. * Students must demonstrate interest in pursuing graduate research. * Students must spend a minimum of 5 months in Panama working on the project (project extension may be possible depending on funding and interest).

1. Curriculum Vitae including name, permanent and current addresses, phone, e-mail, GPA, and complete educational and employment history (social security number and date of birth will be required upon acceptance to the program). 2. A 2-3 page essay including information on your background (e.g., family history, ethnicity, previous laboratory research, education, travel experience, etc.) and your career goals (including how you think a MHIRT assistantship will help you attain these goals). 3. Two letters of recommendation, including from someone who has directly supervised you in a laboratory setting (e.g., graduate student, technician, postdoctoral researcher, or professor). Letters of recommendation should be e-mailed directly to Dr. Tidgewell.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION: Candidate review will begin March 30, 2012 and continue until positions are filled.